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Food Inspector Jobs in Columbia, SC (NOW HIRING)

United Airlines

Quality Inspector

Columbia, SC · On-site

The inspector works directly within the client Kinston production environment supporting Aircraft programs, performing detailed inspections of fuselage panels, structural assemblies, finishes ...

City of Columbia

FOG INSPECTOR

Columbia, SC

$43K - $54K/yr

Essential Job Functions Monitors and enforces the City FOG program to include all Food service ... Performs inspections of commercial grease interceptors/traps within the City sanitary sewer ...

THE RITEDOSE CORPORATION

PC Inspector

Columbia, SC · On-site

$23.03/hr

The Process Control Inspector is responsible for the product process monitoring activities in the filling, bulk, and packaging areas. Responsibilities include: product inspections, line clearance ...

AECOM

CEI Inspector

Columbia, SC · On-site

This role will assist with inspection activities on roadway and transportation infrastructure projects, ensuring construction work is performed in accordance with plans, specifications, and ...

AECOM

CEI Inspector

Columbia, SC

This role will assist with inspection activities on roadway and transportation infrastructure projects, ensuring construction work is performed in accordance with plans, specifications, and ...

State of South Carolina

Inspector (Upstate)

Columbia, SC · On-site

$47K - $53K/yr

You will prepare inspection reports and explain to licensees the basis for the corrective actions required. You will conduct follow-up inspections detailing whether the required corrective actions ...

S&ME

CEI Inspector

Columbia, SC

CEI Inspector Requisition Number: 2026-1610-09 S&ME is currently seeking entry-level to experienced CEI Inspectors to join our team within our Columbia, South Carolina office. Being a CEI ...

S&ME Inc.

CEI Inspector

Columbia, SC · On-site

CEI Inspector Requisition Number: 2026-1610-09 S&ME is currently seeking entry-level to experienced CEI Inspectors to join our team within our Columbia, South Carolina office. Being a CEI ...

S&ME, Inc.

CEI Inspector

Columbia, SC · On-site

CEI Inspector Requisition Number: 2026-1610-09 S&ME is currently seeking entry-level to experienced CEI Inspectors to join our team within our Columbia, South Carolina office. Being a CEI ...

S&ME, Inc.

CEI Inspector

Columbia, SC · On-site

As a CEI Inspector, you'll play a critical role in overseeing contractor activities and ensuring the successful completion of projects. You may make key technical decisions and work independently or ...

Eaton

Panelboard Quality Inspector

Sumter, SC · On-site

$20/hr

The Panelboard Inspector will visually and mechanically inspect panelboards to verify that products are engineered and assembled to meet customer's needs by referencing drawings, design literature ...

Eaton Aerospace

Panelboard Quality Inspector

Sumter, SC · On-site

$20/hr

The Panelboard Inspector will visually and mechanically inspect panelboards to verify that products are engineered and assembled to meet customer's needs by referencing drawings, design literature ...

AVANTech, LLC

Quality Control Inspector

Columbia, SC · On-site

$22 - $27/hr

Perform receipt inspections on incoming materials, including verifying certifications (CMTRs, CofCs), physical attributes, and traceability * Perform detailed dimensional inspections using calipers ...

AVANTech, LLC

Quality Control Inspector

Columbia, SC

$22 - $27/hr

Perform receipt inspections on incoming materials, including verifying certifications (CMTRs, CofCs), physical attributes, and traceability * Perform detailed dimensional inspections using calipers ...

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All JobsFood Inspector JobsFood Inspector Jobs in Columbia, SC

Food Inspector information

See Columbia, SC salary details

$10.2K

$37.7K

$58.3K

How much do food inspector jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for food inspector in Columbia, SC is $37,732.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $34,700.00 and $40,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a food inspector?

A food inspector makes sure that all food produced at a farm, processing plant, slaughterhouse, or other food production facility meets rigorous health and safety requirements before shipment. As a food inspector, your duties include performing physical inspections of the food, investigating health, sanitation, and safety practices at a facility, and writing reports based off of your investigations and interviews. You must be able to notice any potential for bacterial or other contamination and be willing to stop production to uphold public safety.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a food inspector?

To thrive as a Food Inspector, you need a solid understanding of food safety regulations, microbiology, and public health, usually supported by a relevant degree or certification. Familiarity with inspection tools, laboratory testing equipment, and reporting systems is essential for effective monitoring and documentation. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and strong communication skills help Food Inspectors identify risks and collaborate with various stakeholders. These skills and qualities are crucial to ensure public safety, regulatory compliance, and the integrity of the food supply chain.

What are some common challenges food inspectors face during inspections, and how can they effectively address them?

Food Inspectors often encounter challenges such as non-compliance with safety regulations, language barriers with facility staff, and time constraints when inspecting multiple sites. To address these issues, inspectors rely on clear communication, detailed checklists, and ongoing training to stay current with evolving food safety standards. Building rapport with facility personnel and maintaining a thorough, objective approach helps ensure that all issues are identified and resolved efficiently, ultimately protecting public health.

What is the difference between Food Inspector vs Food Safety Officer?

AspectFood InspectorFood Safety Officer
Required CredentialsDegree in Food Technology, Microbiology, or related field; certification may be requiredSimilar qualifications as Food Inspector; often requires additional training in food safety standards
Work EnvironmentInspecting food production units, markets, and restaurantsOverseeing food safety compliance, conducting audits, and public awareness
Employer & Industry UsageGovernment agencies, food manufacturing, and inspection departmentsGovernment health departments, regulatory agencies, and food industry

Both Food Inspectors and Food Safety Officers work to ensure food quality and safety, often with overlapping roles. Food Inspectors primarily focus on inspecting food establishments and products, while Food Safety Officers handle broader compliance and public health initiatives. The roles are complementary, with similar qualifications and work environments, but differ slightly in scope and responsibilities.

How hard is it to be a food inspector?

Becoming a food inspector requires completing relevant education, such as a degree in food science, microbiology, or a related field, and passing a certification exam. The job involves inspecting food production facilities, enforcing safety standards, and often working in various environments, which can be physically demanding and require attention to detail. Experience and knowledge of food safety regulations are essential for success in this role.

How much do food inspectors make in the US?

Food inspectors in the United States earn a median annual salary of around $45,000 to $55,000, with experienced inspectors and those working in certain states earning higher wages. Salaries can vary based on location, level of experience, and certifications such as the ServSafe Food Protection Manager certification.
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For Food Inspector jobs in Columbia, SC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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The top searched job categories for Food Inspector jobs in Columbia, SC are:

What cities near Columbia, SC are hiring for Food Inspector jobs?

Cities near Columbia, SC with the most Food Inspector job openings:

Food Inspector jobs near you
Infographic showing various Food Inspector job openings in Columbia, SC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $37,732 per year, or $18.1 per hour.

Inspector

Johnson, Mirmiran & Thompson (JMT)

Columbia, SC

Full-time

Re-posted 21 days ago

Johnson, Mirmiran & Thompson rating

9.8

Company rating: 9.8 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

2nd of 450 rated engineering

Job description

Job Description

Johnson, Mirmiran & Thompson is a dynamic, 100% employee-owned consulting firm with more than 2,800 professionals, providing a full range of multidisciplinary engineering, architecture, information technology, and related services to public agencies and private clients throughout the United States. JMT is currently ranked #45 on Engineering News-Record's list of the Top 500 Design Firms.

JMT's Construction Management Team is seeking Inspectors to apply standard inspection procedures on ongoing activities, in the state of South Carolina, during and after roadway and bridge construction for quality, safety and conformance to plans and specifications. 

Immigration sponsorship or support (e.g. H1B, F-1 CPT/OPT/STEM OPT) is not available for this position, except for qualified candidates eligible for the TN visa classification.

Higher level Inspector positions are also available in the SC and surrounding communities.  Qualified candidates with extensive experience in inspection and regulatory compliance are encouraged to apply. We offer training, professional career development opportunities, and a collaborative work environment aimed at fostering growth and excellence. Join us in ensuring the highest standards of safety and quality in the industry.

This position is available in multiple locations within South Carolina and can be discussed with the hiring manager during an interview.

Essential Functions and Responsibilities

  • Review and interpret plans, site layouts, specifications and construction methods to ensure compliance to legal requirements and safety regulations. 
  • Performs routine tests on concrete, soils and other materials
  • Measure dimensions and verify level, alignment, and elevation of structures, fixtures, grades and/or pavement to ensure compliance to plans and codes.
  • Gathers and maintains record documents
  • Makes field notes and computations 

Nonessential Functions and Responsibilities 

  • Perform other related duties as assigned 

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